Basic Supplies

Directions

STEP 1

Soak gourds in warm water for 10-15 minutes; remove dirt and let dry. Sand surfaces. Drill hole large enough for toothpick in top center of each gourd.

STEP 2

Condition clay in hands until soft and pliable. Roll three balls (heads) from clay measuring 1-1/2”, 1-1/4”, and 1”. Press toothpick halfway into bottom of each head then insert into hole in gourd. Position gourds in sand in oven-proof dish. Cut three 3” lengths from wire. Form loop and insert ends into top of heads.

STEP 3

For faces, roll three balls for muzzles measuring 3/4”, 1/2”, and 1/4”; form into cone shapes. Flatten base and press onto faces. Roll tiny noses and press on muzzles. Indent eyes on each head using end of paintbrush handle. Indent eyebrows using clay needle tool. For eyes, roll six tiny clay balls and set inside oven-proof dish. For ears, roll two 1/2” balls for each polar bear; slightly flatten bottom of balls and press onto sides of each head. Use metal ball tool to indent front of each ear.

STEP 4

For feet, form two clay balls each measuring 1-3/4”, 1-1/2”, and 1”. Use fingers to form “marshmallow” shapes. Use blunt point tool to indent ankles. Hold foot area between thumb and forefinger; gently press to extend foot. Press onto gourds in desired location so legs conform to gourd contour. Remove and set aside.

STEP 5

For scarves, roll clay balls measuring 1-1/4”, 1”, and 3/4”; form into logs. Flatten slightly with roller. Use clay needle tool to score fringe at either end of scarves. Wrap scarves around base of heads; cross over ends behind heads.

STEP 6

For arms, roll two clay balls each measuring 1”, 3/4” and 1/2”. Roll balls into logs. Use clay roller to slightly flatten shoulder area of arms. Use fingers to shape paws. Use needle tool to indent three lines into paws on each arm. Press onto bodies. (Note: Do not let arms touch scarves.)

STEP 7

For snowballs, roll 1/2” balls for each polar bear. Use needle tool to poke hole halfway through each ball.